Qualification: A Level Art & Design (AQA)
Course Tutor: Mrs V Walden
Course entry requirements: General A level entry requirements including a Grade 5 or above in GCSE Art or by presenting a strong portfolio.
Course description
This is a two year A level course.
The skills you will develop will be varied. Among them will be a working knowledge of materials, practices and technology within art. You will develop the skills to interpret and convey your ideas and feelings using a range of techniques such as drawing, photography, and traditional media. You will develop imaginative and creative powers, as well as experimental, analytical and documenting skills.
Art and Design is a practical course where observational drawing is a vital element and this will need to be evident in your journals/sketchbooks.
Students should be prepared to visit museums and galleries in their own time in order to support their studies, as well as making use of the sixth form studio during independent study time.
Coursework
Component 1 (60%) - A coursework portfolio based on classroom workshops, a mock project, and then a sustained and substantial personal investigation on a theme or subject chosen by you, following discussion with teachers. The personal investigation must be accompanied by an essay.
Work is assessed based on the following evidence: the development of ideas; use of media, experimentation and quality of making; primary observation and drawing skills; application of learning and final pieces.
Examination
Component 2 (40%) In February of year 13, a range of themes or topics as starting points will be set by AQA. You have a period of time through the spring term to develop your ideas by applying your learning from Component 1. This component culminates in a 15 hour practical exam, usually across three school days.
Components 1 and 2 are internally assessed and externally moderated.
Post-18 Opportunities and Employment
With further training or study, students go into careers including advertising, publishing, design, hair and beauty, architecture, fashion and textile industry, TV, theatre set design, museum/art gallery curation, amongst other areas.
Whatever you choose, the study of art can help you develop transferable skills, which will assist you in any and every career or job.
If you would like more detailed information about the content of this course, please visit the Art curriculum page, where you will find curriculum maps for each year of study.
